You've probably heard of a disease called meningitis, right? Some people also call it "brain fever." It's actually a dangerous condition caused by an infection of the membranes that surround our brain and spinal cord. So, one of the best ways to protect yourself from such a serious disease is vaccination. Today, we're talking about one such very important vaccine, the Meningococcal B vaccine.
What is the meningococcal B (MenB) vaccine?
Simply put, this is a vaccine that protects us against Meningococcus B, a type of bacteria that causes meningitis.
One thing you need to remember is that this is not a medicine that is given after the illness has occurred. This is a vaccine that reduces the risk of getting the disease. That is, it is possible to get the disease rarely after getting this vaccine. But even if it does, the symptoms are more likely to be less severe or to recover more quickly.
So how does this vaccine work? Think of our body as a country, and the immune system as the army of that country. What this vaccine does is show our army, our immune system, a "photograph" of the enemy called meningococcus B, and train it to "be ready to fight if someone like this comes here." Then, if that bacteria ever actually enters the body, our immune system will recognize it and quickly fight and destroy it.
This vaccine is available under various brand names around the world, including TRUMENBA. Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate vaccine for you or your child.
Things to tell your doctor before getting vaccinated
Before getting this vaccine, it is very important to give your doctor a complete description of your health condition, as that information will determine whether you will be given this vaccine, or whether it will be postponed.
Let's see what those important points are in the table below.
| Situation you need to report | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| If you have a bleeding disorder | Because the vaccine is injected into a piece of meat, there may be more bleeding than normal when injected. Therefore, it is important to inform the doctor about this. |
| If you currently have a fever or other infection | It's not a good idea to get vaccinated when your body is already fighting another illness. Usually, you get vaccinated after you've recovered from a cold or flu. |
| If you have immune system problems | If you have a disease like cancer, HIV, or are taking medications that suppress your immune system, the way your body responds to the vaccine may change. So it's important to let your doctor know about this. |
| If you have allergic reactions to other vaccines, medications, foods, or things | This is very important. If you have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous vaccine or any of its ingredients, you should definitely tell your doctor about it. |
| If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant | It is essential to talk to your doctor before taking anything during pregnancy. |
| If you are a breastfeeding mother (Breastfeeding) | If you are a breastfeeding mother, inform your doctor about this as well. |
How to get vaccinated and what to watch out for
This vaccine is given by injection into a muscle . It is usually given in the upper arm. This is not something you can get at home, but is given by a trained doctor or nurse in a hospital or clinic.
Before you get the vaccine, you will be given a Vaccine Information Statement to read. Please read it carefully. If you have any questions or concerns, please ask your doctor.
This vaccine can be given in several doses. To be fully protected, it is very important to receive all the doses prescribed by your doctor on time.
This vaccine is usually recommended for people over 10 years of age, especially adolescents and young adults. However, the final decision about it is made by the doctor who examines you.
What if I miss a dose of the vaccine?
Be sure to go on the next day your doctor gives you. If for some reason you can't go on that day, call your doctor as soon as possible and reschedule. Don't skip doses.
What other things can interfere with the vaccine?
Some medicines you are taking may interact with this vaccine. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies), especially:
- Medicines that prevent blood clotting or thin the blood (e.g. Warfarin, Aspirin).
- Medications that suppress the body's immune system (e.g., cancer medications, steroids).
- Other types of vaccines (although there is no problem in giving some vaccines together, it is important to inform the doctor about it).
Possible side effects after vaccination
As with any vaccine, minor side effects may occur after receiving this vaccine. However, these are usually nothing to worry about. They will go away on their own within a day or two.
| Side effects and what to do | |
|---|---|
| 🚨 Severe symptoms that require immediate medical attention | |
| Severe allergic reactions | Symptoms like skin rash, itching, swelling of the body, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, difficulty breathing, chest tightness. If anything like this happens, immediately go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital. |
| Dizziness or vertigo | If you feel so dizzy that you can't stand, or if your eyes are turning blue, let your doctor know. |
| 👍 Symptoms that usually come and go, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Pain at the injection site | Redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site. This is very common. |
| Headache and fatigue | You may experience a slight headache and fatigue. Drink plenty of water and rest. |
| Muscle and joint pain | Your body may feel sore. |
| Nausea | You may feel like vomiting. |
Not all of these side effects occur in everyone. Most of the time, they subside within a day or two. But if you feel anything unusual or are worried, never hesitate to call your doctor for advice.
Take-Home Message
- The meningococcal B vaccine is an important vaccine that protects against a dangerous type of bacteria that causes meningitis (brain fever).
- This is not a cure for the disease, but only a protection that reduces the risk of developing the disease.
- Before getting the vaccine, be sure to tell your doctor about any other illnesses you have, all medications you take, and any allergies you have.
- It's normal to experience some soreness at the injection site, a slight headache, and fatigue. However, if you experience anything serious, such as a severe allergic reaction, see a doctor immediately.
- For complete safety, it is very important to take all doses prescribed by your doctor exactly on time.
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